Diane Marilyn Anderson Roy
Diane Marilyn Anderson Roy, 92, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and friendship. She was deeply cherished by all who knew her and will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, wisdom, and dedication to her family, friends, and community.
Diane was born on April 20, 1932, in Rolette County, North Dakota, to E.M. “Andy” and Martha Anderson. She grew up alongside her siblings, Bud, Twila, Carol, Carlton, and Jack, in Rolla, North Dakota, during the challenging years of the Great Depression and World War II. Despite the hardships of those times, Diane treasured her small-town life on the prairies of North Dakota and the lasting friendships she formed, which continued throughout her life.
Diane and her husband A.J. “Sonny” Roy were from neighboring towns and met while in high school. They were married in Laredo, Texas in August 1953 while A.J. was in pilot training. Their 54-year marriage was filled with love, and together they raised a family while navigating life’s many adventures. A.J. passed away in 2007.
The Air Force took Diane and A.J. many places before they landed in Nassau Bay in 1964 when A.J. joined NASA. Diane embraced her role as a loving wife and devoted mother to their four children, building a warm and close-knit community, particularly with fellow NASA wives and families. She was a longtime member of Webster Presbyterian Church, where she also made many lifelong friendships.
Diane’s true passion was teaching. She began her career in a one-room schoolhouse in Mylo, North Dakota, and later earned a degree from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. After raising her children, she returned to teaching, spending 16 years as a beloved kindergarten teacher at Webster Primary School. Her love for children and education touched the lives of countless students and their families.
Diane enjoyed traveling and visiting her family and childhood friends across the country, often taking extended summer trips back to her beloved North Dakota. Her love for reading, animals, and spending time with her grandchildren also brought her great joy. In her later years, she hosted many “Grandma Camps” and birthday celebrations, creating precious memories with her six grandchildren.
Diane is survived by her children, Amy Roppolo (Glynn), Bill Roy (April), Stuart Roy (Mary), and Casey Roy (Betsy), and her six grandchildren: Jordan and Steven, Emily and Andrew, and Archie and Eloise.
Diane’s greatest legacy is the love she shared with her family and friends. She will be deeply missed; her love and kindness will remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.